What a merino wool jumper is to winter, a flowing spaghetti-strap top is to summer. And when the weather signals that it’s time to embrace an unapologetically sunshine-appropriate number, you know that the magical season has arrived.
But a summer top needn’t equal skimpy; if you haven’t owned a crop top since 2009 and aren’t sure what’s appropriate, there are lots of chic alternatives, such as an effortless linen shirt or a tasteful tie-front blouse. That said, don’t think of a crop top as suitable only for the beach: It’s the perfect partner to a high-waisted midi skirt and pretty edgy when styled over a crisp cotton shirt.
Have an arsenal of summer tops to hand and you’ll never be stuck for what to wear with cropped jeans and summer skirts again—trust us. So give your dresses a (brief) break and get inspired by clicking through our edit below…
